Look for These 10 Things at Discount Stores

Who among us hasn’t burned a good chunk of the day wandering the racks of a T.J. Maxx or Marshalls, searching for the next item that might truly surprise us? You might go in looking for one thing and come out with quite another, but it turns out that there can — and, perhaps, should — be a method to the madness. There are certain items you absolutely must buy at discount stores and others that you should probably avoid.

What Should You Buy at Discount Stores?

So what’s worth it at discount stores? Not all items are made equal. And it’s not just price that should be taken into account but quality and durability of the items available. Sure, you may be able to get a dresser, let’s say, for cheap at Marshalls, but how long will it actually last? Here are our suggestions for items that will come to you at a discount — and last a while.
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Office Supplies

If you’re anything like us, perhaps you abscond almost immediately to the back of a T.J. Maxx or Marshalls, searching for office supplies. There’s no such thing as too many pencil containers. But don’t just go for the cute items. Think household staples, like Scotch tape and masking tape, experts tell U.S. News and World Report. The prices may be cheaper, but it’s also important to note their relative size. Make sure you’re getting an item for the same size as competitors but at a lesser price.
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Reading Glasses

Having trouble reading the fine print? It may be time for you to get reading glasses and we know where to get a stylish and inexpensive pair. You can generally find pairs between +1.0 and +3.25 diopters, the measurement used for a prescription.
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Phone Cases

I can personally vouch for T.J. Maxx and Marshalls’ phone cases — I’ve bought many a case there, and they are nearly identical to what you might find at the name brands. A search of the store’s website reveals phone case options from designers as luxurious as Gucci and Bottega Veneta, with prices from $24 to $134. But an in-store search will certainly yield cheaper options and other brands.
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Pet Supplies

Need to stock up on some items for man’s best friend? Discount retailers have you covered. Blogger Krazy Coupon Lady (as reported in Business Insider) notes that the pet section has toys as cheap as $2 and dog beds under $25. She even says their prices are frequently cheaper than Walmart. Online, we spy cat scratchers, dog chews and pet gates for competitive prices.
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Towels

Who doesn’t want to spruce up their towel collection and introduce a new member to the linen family? At T.J. Maxx, you can buy sets of towels from Vera Wang, Laina and Brooks Brothers for prices between $29.99 and $39.99. The Budget Babe suggests buying Egyptian cotton—you’ll get it for the best price there, she says.
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Storage Containers

You know when you’re trying to organize your winter sweaters or your old papers and can’t stand the sight of yet another plastic bin? Discount retailers are the place to get decorative baskets and storage containers to keep everything housed in the right place—and looking stylish while doing so. We’re a fan of this $24.99 storage basket.
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Pillows

Aside from towels, The Budget Babe loves getting her pillows at T.J. Maxx and Marshalls. She says consumers can get a high quality pair of pillows for as little as $20. Whether you want decorative pillows that read “Good Vibes Only” or an extra set for your guest bedroom, you’ll likely be able to find something that doesn’t break the bank.
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Frames

Picture frames are a staple in any home and a great way to house either art or your family’s favorite photos. But they can be pricey. That’s why buying a frame from a discount retailer is a good way to get a high-quality item without paying the market price. Frames online start as low as $7.99.
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Clothes Hangers

Many of us have gotten to that point where you buy a new article of clothing and realize you have nowhere—and nothing on which—you can hang it. At Marshalls or T.J. Maxx, you can find a wide range of aesthetically pleasing—and better for your fabric—velvet hangers at low prices, per The Budget Babe. A better product for less? Sign us up!
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Notebooks

For all those addicted to office supplies and elegant stationery, we implore you: get your notebooks at a discount retailer. Not only will you have a cute selection to choose from, but the prices will surprise you.
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